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Gala in Sofia 2026: Open-Air Nights with Sonya Yoncheva, Jonas Kaufmann, David Garrett & Charles B
On 23, 25 and 27 August 2026, St. Alexander Nevsky Square will once again become a spectacular open-air stage as Gala in Sofia returns. Organised by Sonya Yoncheva and her production company SY11 Events, the three evenings will bring together opera, classical music, electronic sounds, pop and crossover in the heart of the Bulgarian capital.
The festival opens on 23 August at 20:00 with the Bulgarian debut of French DJ and producer Charles B. In his show Unlimited, the internet phenomenon behind the “Classical Meets Techno” concept transforms masterpieces by Vivaldi, Mozart and Beethoven through contemporary electronic rhythms. He will be joined by the Sofia Opera Orchestra for an evening that builds a bridge between classical music and a new generation of listeners.
On 25 August, opera takes centre stage with a concert performance of Puccini’s Tosca. Sonya Yoncheva and Jonas Kaufmann will appear as Tosca and Cavaradossi, joined by Igor Golovatenko as Scarpia. Grigor Palikarov conducts the Sofia Opera Orchestra and Chorus.
The festival concludes on 27 August with Blue Night, the first artistic encounter between Sonya Yoncheva and violin virtuoso David Garrett. Classical masterpieces and contemporary hits will meet in a programme combining their distinctive musical worlds, accompanied by the Sofia Opera Orchestra under the direction of Leonardo Sini.
Gala in Sofia continues Sonya Yoncheva and SY11 Events’ mission to welcome leading international artists to Bulgaria, bring different musical genres and generations together, and create exceptional cultural experiences in one of Sofia’s most iconic settings.
Tickets for all three evenings are available through Kupi Bileti: https://www.kupibileti.bg/en/category/167